Sangiovese
October, 2007 Filed in: Wine varieties
Sangiovese pronounced, san-joe-VAY-zee, is one of the two top grapes grown in Italy (the other being Nebbiolo). It is primarily grown in the central and eastern portions of Italy and found predominately in the province of Tuscany (Toscana). Wines produced from Sangiovese are high in acid, with moderate levels of tannins and medium levels of alcohol.
Sangiovese is the predominant grape used in the infamous Chianti wines, although the Italian authorities allow Chianti’s to be blended with other wines. During the 1970’s Chianti fell into disfavour as production increased dramatically and quality was sacrificed. Remember the days of Ruffino Chianti and those hand made wicker baskets. Lately through imposition of stricter government rules, Chianti has made a comeback putting the wine on its rightful pedestal. Chief among the rule changes was a stipulation that Chianti wine must be comprised of at least 90% Sangiovese (used to be 80%). This has resulted in more robust Chianti wines. Many producers though have chosen to emphasize the Sangiovese name to differentiate from the tarnished Chianti reputation.
Taste
Sangiovese has a wonderful bright red cherry character overlaying strawberry notes with hints of violets and white pepper. It has a medium body and a long, wonderfully smooth, tannic finish; livened by a zing of acidity and toasty oak.
Food Pairings
Very food friendly. Great with veal Parmigiana, pasta with garlic and oil, pizza, blue cheese and fruits such as cherries, figs, plums and raspberries.
Kits
Winexpert offers a wonderful Selection International Sangiovese and a Vintners Reserve Passport Series Italian Sangiovese. The Vintners Reserve is on special during the month of December. If you would prefer the Selection, mention you read about Sangiovese in this newsletter and receive free labels when you purchase your Selection International Sangiovese. You can also taste the similar styles in the Selection Chianti or Vintners Reserve Chianti.
Sangiovese is the predominant grape used in the infamous Chianti wines, although the Italian authorities allow Chianti’s to be blended with other wines. During the 1970’s Chianti fell into disfavour as production increased dramatically and quality was sacrificed. Remember the days of Ruffino Chianti and those hand made wicker baskets. Lately through imposition of stricter government rules, Chianti has made a comeback putting the wine on its rightful pedestal. Chief among the rule changes was a stipulation that Chianti wine must be comprised of at least 90% Sangiovese (used to be 80%). This has resulted in more robust Chianti wines. Many producers though have chosen to emphasize the Sangiovese name to differentiate from the tarnished Chianti reputation.
Taste
Sangiovese has a wonderful bright red cherry character overlaying strawberry notes with hints of violets and white pepper. It has a medium body and a long, wonderfully smooth, tannic finish; livened by a zing of acidity and toasty oak.
Food Pairings
Very food friendly. Great with veal Parmigiana, pasta with garlic and oil, pizza, blue cheese and fruits such as cherries, figs, plums and raspberries.
Kits
Winexpert offers a wonderful Selection International Sangiovese and a Vintners Reserve Passport Series Italian Sangiovese. The Vintners Reserve is on special during the month of December. If you would prefer the Selection, mention you read about Sangiovese in this newsletter and receive free labels when you purchase your Selection International Sangiovese. You can also taste the similar styles in the Selection Chianti or Vintners Reserve Chianti.